Chris Huhne has contacted policeÂ offering to âhelp them with their inquiriesâ into claims that he tried to evade punishment for speeding.

Chris Huhne has offered to help police investigating claims he tried to evade punishment for speeding (Pic: PA)

The energy secretary is alleged to have âpressurised people to take his driving licence penalty pointsâ, according to his ex-wife.

Vicky Pryce, whom Mr Huhne left for another woman last year, is believed to have been asked to take the rap after the cabinet minister was caught breaking the speed limit in 2003.

She is reportedly prepared to confirm her claims to Essex Police, who earlier announced they would be interviewing âkey individualsâ over the allegations.

Mr Huhneâs spokeswoman confirmed he âwill be speaking to them next weekâ.

Det Supt Tim Wills, of Essex Police, said âmany lines of inquiryâ will be taken to âestablish if an offence has been committedâ. He added: âThis will entail speaking to key individuals identified by the inquiry team.â

Justice secretary Ken Clarke warned before the investigation was announced that his colleague was âin troubleâ over the controversy but that he had no reason âat the momentâ to doubt him.

Earlier, Downing Street indicated that David Cameron had confidence in Mr Huhne, saying: âThe position on Chris Huhne has not changed.â